Next Level Self

12. The Magic Middle: Navigating the In-Between

What if the most potent part of your transformation isn’t the beginning or the end—but the space in between? In this episode of Next Level Self, I’m exploring the often-overlooked yet deeply sacred space of becoming—the “magic middle” where you're no longer who you were, but not yet who you're becoming. Just like a caterpillar dissolving into mush before becoming a butterfly, transformation requires us to surrender to the unknown, release old identities, and hold ourselves with compassion as we rebuild from the inside out. Whether you're in a season of transition, questioning old habits, or finding your footing in something new, this conversation will help you see the discomfort as sacred. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of why the middle is so vital to your growth—and how to meet yourself there with grace. ✨ In this episode, I share: * Why “what got you here won’t get you there”—and what that really means in practice * The metaphor of the caterpillar’s transformation and how it mirrors our own cycles of change * What the “magic middle” is and why it holds your most powerful growth * How old coping mechanisms often resurface during times of expansion * Ways to anchor into self-trust and nervous system safety when everything feels unfamiliar * Tools and practices to support yourself during transitions—including nature, self-compassion, and future visioning * A gentle reminder that discomfort doesn’t mean you’re off track—it means you're transforming If you're in the thick of your own metamorphosis, this episode is here to remind you: the middle isn’t something to rush through. It’s where your next level self is being born. - - - - - - - - - ✨ You’re exactly where you’re meant to be. ✨ If this episode resonated with you, I’d be honored if you subscribed, shared it with someone on their own path, or left a review—it helps these conversations reach the hearts they’re meant to. Are you feeling the pull to live in deeper alignment with who you truly are? Come find me on Instagram @thenurturednurse [https://instagram.com/thenurturednurse] for grounded reflections, energetic shifts, and reminders that it’s safe to return to yourself. 🌿 Ready to step into the next version of you? If you're navigating a season of expansion, in between chapters, or simply know there’s more available for you—this is your invitation. Book a free Alignment Call and experience a potent space to recalibrate your energy, release what no longer fits, and remember the power of who you’re becoming. This is more than a conversation—it’s a catalyst. Click here to schedule your call. [https://thenurturednurse.as.me/AlignmentCall%20] Keep listening. Keep softening. Keep becoming. ✨ Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to provide medical, mental health, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about your health or well-being.

11. Trauma, Identity, and the Journey Back to Self with Murray Dawson

In this episode, I’m joined by Murray Dawson, a paramedic with 30 years of frontline experience, who opens up about the complex inner journey that followed years of serving others. From navigating PTSD and releasing unhealthy coping patterns, to rediscovering his inner child and reconnecting with nature, Murray shares what it has looked like to slowly peel back the layers and come home to himself. We talk about the hidden weight first responders carry, the challenges of separating who we are from what we do, and how healing often begins in the moments we finally allow ourselves to pause. Murray’s path is a powerful reminder that the journey back to self isn't linear—but it is always possible. We explore: * The unique mental health challenges faced by first responders * The impact of over-identifying with a career or role * The pivotal moment that sparked a shift in Murray’s path * Letting go of alcohol and finding healthier ways to cope * How mindfulness, nature, and inner child work supported his healing * The creation of his 50-acre sanctuary to support others on their own journey ✨ Connect with Murray: Follow Murray on Instagram @murr7171 [https://www.instagram.com/murr7171] to explore more of his journey, connect directly, or learn about his nature-based retreat space. Visit murrayfdawson.ca [https://www.murrayfdawson.ca/home] for coaching info, upcoming retreats, and to book a stay at his off-grid healing cabin. - - - - - - - - - ✨ You’re exactly where you’re meant to be. ✨ If this episode resonated with you, I’d be honored if you subscribed, shared it with someone on their own path, or left a review—it helps these conversations reach the hearts they’re meant to. Are you feeling the pull to live in deeper alignment with who you truly are? Come find me on Instagram @thenurturednurse [https://instagram.com/thenurturednurse] for grounded reflections, energetic shifts, and reminders that it’s safe to return to yourself. 🌿 Ready to step into the next version of you? If you're navigating a season of expansion, in between chapters, or simply know there’s more available for you—this is your invitation. Book a free Alignment Call and experience a potent space to recalibrate your energy, release what no longer fits, and remember the power of who you’re becoming. This is more than a conversation—it’s a catalyst. Click here to schedule your call. [https://thenurturednurse.as.me/AlignmentCall%20] Keep listening. Keep softening. Keep becoming. ✨ Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to provide medical, mental health, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about your health or well-being.

10. Turning Grief Into Purpose: Healing, Advocacy & Conscious Community with Linda Alva

In this powerful episode of Next Level Self, I’m joined by wellness advocate and community builder Linda Alva, whose life was forever changed after the devastating loss of her son, Tristan, due to an accidental drug overdose. Through unimaginable grief, Linda found herself on a profound journey of healing—one that led her to create The Gathering Place, a spiritual wellness community that’s become a sanctuary for connection, purpose, and transformation. What began as a personal spiritual awakening—sparked by the audiobook The Power of Now and simple mindfulness practices—has since evolved into a mission rooted in advocacy, education, and heart-centered leadership. Linda’s story is one of profound resilience, and her work is a beautiful example of how pain, when met with presence, can become purpose. 🌿 Together, we explore: * How Linda’s spiritual path deepened after personal loss and led her to holistic healing * The creation of The Gathering Place as a safe, inclusive community for healing and growth * What it means to live in alignment with your dharma—even through life's darkest seasons * The role of mindfulness, gratitude, and movement in navigating grief * How the fentanyl crisis is impacting families—and why awareness matters * Embracing vulnerability and stepping into your next-level self * Making decisions your future self will thank you for ✨ Interested in connecting with Linda and learning more about The Gathering Place? Follow her on Instagram @pilates_mom [https://www.instagram.com/pilates_mom/] To attend an event or learn more, follow @thegatheringplacenb [https://www.instagram.com/thegatheringplacenb/] 🆘 Want to be prepared to save a life? Linda works with the nonprofit Fentanyl Solutions to distribute free Narcan and fentanyl testing strips. If you’d like access to these life-saving resources, reach out to her directly via Instagram @pilates_mom [https://www.instagram.com/pilates_mom/] - - - - - - - - - ✨ You’re exactly where you’re meant to be. ✨ If this episode resonated with you, I’d be honored if you subscribed, shared it with someone on their own path, or left a review—it helps these conversations reach the hearts they’re meant to. Are you feeling the pull to live in deeper alignment with who you truly are? Come find me on Instagram @thenurturednurse [https://instagram.com/thenurturednurse] for grounded reflections, energetic shifts, and reminders that it’s safe to return to yourself. 🌿 Ready to step into the next version of you? If you're navigating a season of expansion, in between chapters, or simply know there’s more available for you—this is your invitation. Book a free Alignment Call and experience a potent space to recalibrate your energy, release what no longer fits, and remember the power of who you’re becoming. This is more than a conversation—it’s a catalyst. Click here to schedule your call. [https://thenurturednurse.as.me/AlignmentCall%20] Keep listening. Keep softening. Keep becoming. ✨ Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to provide medical, mental health, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about your health or well-being.

9. Redefining Success: From High Performance to Inner Fulfillment with Sydney Olson

What if everything you thought would bring you happiness—status, success, and recognition—left you feeling more empty than fulfilled? In this deeply insightful episode of Next Level Self, I sit down with Sydney Olson, a world-renowned stuntwoman, parkour athlete, and mindset coach, to explore what happens when the pursuit of achievement no longer satisfies your soul. From winning international competitions to working on major Hollywood productions, Sydney opens up about the inner void that remained despite checking all the "success" boxes—and how that realization sparked a powerful shift toward redefining fulfillment on her own terms. Together, we dive into: * Sydney’s leap from small-town gymnast to global stunt performer * The moment she realized achievements felt like “filling a bucket with holes” * How honoring both masculine drive and feminine flow opened new doors * The role of synchronicity and surrender in attracting aligned opportunities * What it really means to enjoy the process instead of gripping the outcome * Navigating identity shifts and embracing the unknown with curiosity and courage * The transformative mindset work that’s guiding her into her next chapter This conversation is an empowering reminder that your next level self isn’t just about doing more—it’s about being more aligned, more authentic, and more at peace with who you truly are. Whether you're a high performer, someone who struggles with perfectionism, or you're feeling the call to pursue a more meaningful, aligned version of success, Sydney’s story will inspire you to trust the process, let go of rigid expectations, and have a little more fun along the way. Let this episode be your permission slip to release the pressure and reconnect with your joy. Connect with Sydney: 🎙️ Collecting Scars Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/collecting-scars/id1646100037] 📲 Instagram: @sydneyolson1 [https://www.instagram.com/sydneyolson1/] - - - - - - - - - ✨ You’re exactly where you’re meant to be. ✨ If this episode resonated with you, I’d be honored if you subscribed, shared it with someone on their own path, or left a review—it helps these conversations reach the hearts they’re meant to. Are you feeling the pull to live in deeper alignment with who you truly are? Come find me on Instagram @thenurturednurse [https://instagram.com/thenurturednurse] for grounded reflections, energetic shifts, and reminders that it’s safe to return to yourself. 🌿 Ready to step into the next version of you? If you're navigating a season of expansion, in between chapters, or simply know there’s more available for you—this is your invitation. Book a free Alignment Call and experience a potent space to recalibrate your energy, release what no longer fits, and remember the power of who you’re becoming. This is more than a conversation—it’s a catalyst. Click here to schedule your call. [https://thenurturednurse.as.me/AlignmentCall%20] Keep listening. Keep softening. Keep becoming. ✨ Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to provide medical, mental health, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about your health or well-being.

8. From Corporate Burnout to Creative Freedom with Adriana Douglas

What happens when you’ve checked all the boxes, done everything “right,” and still feel empty inside? In this milestone episode of Next Level Self, I’m joined by my very first guest—singer-songwriter and creative mentor Adriana Douglas—who vulnerably shares her powerful journey from corporate burnout to creative liberation. In this deep and inspiring conversation, Adriana opens up about the hidden cost of being labeled a “high achiever,” how emotional and spiritual disconnection led her to burnout despite maintaining physical health, and what it really means to embody your next-level self from the inside out. Together, we explore: * The “magic middle”—the often uncomfortable but transformative space between who you were and who you're becoming * Why nervous system regulation is key to holding the energy of your future self * The importance of completing cycles of identity before stepping into new ones * How dreams (like becoming a digital nomad) can teach us what we actually need * Why music became her portal for healing, expression, and expansion * How consistent, aligned action grounded in your values leads to real, lasting transformation Whether you're feeling stuck between chapters, navigating burnout, or sensing that something deeper is ready to emerge, this episode will meet you right where you are. Adriana’s story is a beautiful reminder that your next level self isn’t about drastic overnight changes—it’s about slowing down, getting honest with yourself, and honoring every step of the journey. Connect with Adriana ✨Stream her new single: A New York Goodbye [https://ffm.to/133vl7v.OPR] ✨Explore The Threshold Audio Series [https://adrianadouglas.com/nygoodbye] Bundle ✨Visit her Website [https://adrianadouglas.com/] ✨Follow along on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theartofadrianaa/] - - - - - - - - - ✨ You’re exactly where you’re meant to be. ✨ If this episode resonated with you, I’d be honored if you subscribed, shared it with someone on their own path, or left a review—it helps these conversations reach the hearts they’re meant to. Are you feeling the pull to live in deeper alignment with who you truly are? Come find me on Instagram @thenurturednurse [https://instagram.com/thenurturednurse] for grounded reflections, energetic shifts, and reminders that it’s safe to return to yourself. 🌿 Ready to step into the next version of you? If you're navigating a season of expansion, in between chapters, or simply know there’s more available for you—this is your invitation. Book a free Alignment Call and experience a potent space to recalibrate your energy, release what no longer fits, and remember the power of who you’re becoming. This is more than a conversation—it’s a catalyst. Click here to schedule your call. [https://thenurturednurse.as.me/AlignmentCall%20] Keep listening. Keep softening. Keep becoming. ✨ Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to provide medical, mental health, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about your health or well-being.